Foldable electric vehicle

ABSTRACT

Foldable electrical vehicles and related charging infrastructure are described. The foldable electrical vehicle generally includes three structural armatures (front and rear wheel-bearing armatures and a seat-bearing armature) that are pivotally interconnected along their lengths such that they may be pivoted between a closed position wherein the three armatures are disposed roughly parallel to each other in a compact folded configuration, and an open riding configuration wherein an angular relation is formed between the armatures.

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No.61/876,124, filed Sep. 10, 2013 and U.S. Provisional Application No.61/929,862, filed Jan. 21, 2014, the disclosures of each of which areincorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Compact, foldable electric vehicles and charging stations for saidvehicles are described.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A common difficulty encountered in public transport is in trying to movepeople from a transportation hub, like a railway station, bus stop, etc.to their desired destination, or from their origination point to atransport hub. These problems are referred to as the ‘last mile’ or‘first mile’ problem, respectively. Where the population of a place isnot dense, like in areas where there are extensive suburbs and exurbs,this difficulty can become chronic making public transport impractical.A number of solutions have been proposed to overcome this problem,including community transportation such as feeder transport and ride orcar sharing programs, however, these methods require a socialinfrastructure that is often either not available or not extensiveenough to meet commuter needs. Other solutions involve various forms ofportable transport, such as bicycles. Most of these personal forms oftransportation are relatively bulky and present challenges in storage atboth ends of the commute, as well as transport within most publictransport systems.

Accordingly, a need exists for personal transport devices andinfrastructure capable of addressing the ‘last mile’/′first mile′challenge.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The application is directed to portable electric vehicles andinfrastructure for portable electric vehicles.

Many embodiments are directed to a foldable vehicle including:

-   -   at least two wheel-bearing armatures having first and second        ends and defining a wheel-bearing armature longitudinal axis,        each of said wheel-bearing armatures having at least one wheel        assembly interconnected to the second end thereof and a        wheel-bearing armature pivot hinge bracket disposed along the        length thereof;    -   at least one seat-bearing armature having first and second ends        and defining a seat-bearing armature longitudinal axis, the        seat-bearing armature having a seating platform interconnected        to the second end thereof and a seat-bearing pivot hinge bracket        disposed along the length thereof; and    -   wherein the at least two wheel-bearing armature pivot hinge        brackets and the seat-bearing pivot hinge bracket are configured        to cooperatively interconnect to form a vehicle pivot hinge such        that the armatures are pivotably interconnected about a single        vehicle pivot point to move between at least two configurations:        -   a first riding configuration wherein the longitudinal axes            of the two wheel-bearing armatures and the seat-bearing            armatures have angular offsets relative to each other, and        -   a second folded configuration wherein the longitudinal axes            of the two wheel-bearing armatures and the seat-bearing            armature are roughly parallel.

In other embodiments, the foldable vehicle includes a steering mechanisminterconnected with at least one of said wheel-bearing armatures andconfigured to change to directional orientation of at least one wheelassembly relative to the vehicle. In some such embodiments the vehicleincludes a front wheel-bearing armature and a rear wheel-bearingarmature, and wherein the steering mechanism is pivotably interconnectedwith the wheel assembly of the front wheel-bearing armature to movebetween at least two configurations:

-   -   a first riding configuration wherein the longitudinal axes of        the front wheel-bearing armature and the steering mechanism have        angular offsets relative to each other, and    -   a second folded configuration wherein the longitudinal axes of        the front wheel-bearing armature and the steering mechanism are        roughly parallel.

In still other embodiments, the foldable vehicle includes a front wheelassembly lock configured to prevent changes to the directionalorientation of the wheel assembly of the front wheel-bearing armaturewhen in the folded configuration. In some such embodiments the frontwheel-bearing armature defines an internal volume having an energystorage device disposed therein.

In yet other embodiments, the steering mechanism is at least onehandlebar, and wherein the height and angle of the handlebar relative tothe vehicle is adjustable.

In still yet other embodiments, the wheel-bearing pivot hinge bracketsand the seat-bearing pivot hinge bracket are disposed proximal to thefirst end of their respective armatures.

In still yet other embodiments, the foldable vehicle includes a pivotlocking mechanism configured to disengageably lock the armatures in oneof the at least two configurations. In some such embodiments, the pivotlocking mechanism includes a plurality of locking grooves and acooperative locking pin configured to engage said locking grooves, saidlocking grooves being disposed on at least one of the at least twowheel-bearing armatures, and said cooperative locking pin being disposedon at least another of the at least two wheel-bearing armatures suchthat when the cooperative locking pin is engaged within the lockinggrooves the at least two wheel-bearing armatures are prevented frompivoting relative to each other.

In still yet other embodiments, the foldable vehicle includes a lockingmechanism disengagement element disposed on the seat-bearing armatureand configured to disengage the pivot locking mechanism when theseat-bearing armature is pivoted upward relative to the axial alignmentof the seat-bearing armature in one of either the first ridingconfiguration or the second folded configuration.

In still yet other embodiments, the foldable vehicle includes a seatsupport element pivotably engaged at a first end thereof along thelength of the seat-bearing armature and slidingly engaged at a secondend thereof along the length of one of the at least two wheel-bearingarmatures such that a roughly triangular configuration is formed betweenthe seat-bearing armature, the at least one wheel-bearing armature andthe seat support element. In some such embodiments, the axis of the seatsupport element is roughly orthogonal with the axis of the seat-bearingarmature. In some such embodiments, the seat support element slidinglyengages a channel disposed along a portion of the wheel-bearingarmature, the channel delineating a curve-linear path between at leasttwo configurations:

-   -   a first riding configuration wherein the longitudinal axes of        the wheel-bearing armature and the seat-bearing armature and the        seat support element have angular offsets relative to each        other, and    -   a second folded configuration wherein the longitudinal axes of        the wheel-bearing armature and the seat-bearing armature and the        seat support element are roughly parallel.

In still yet other embodiments, the seat support element comprises aresilient member. In some such embodiments the seat support element isconfigured such that when the seat-bearing armature is pivoted into thesecond folded configuration the resilient member is placed into tensionsuch that a resilient locking force is applied to the seat-bearingarmature to urge said seat-bearing armature into position in the secondfolded configuration.

In still yet other embodiments, at least one additional resilientelement is disposed in relation to said seat support element to apply aforce thereto, thereby urging said seat support element into at leastone of either the first riding configuration or the second foldedconfiguration.

In still yet other embodiments, the vehicle includes two wheel-bearingarmatures, a front wheel-bearing element having a front wheel assemblywith a single wheel, and a rear wheel-bearing element having a rearwheel assembly with at least one wheel. In some such embodiments therear wheel assembly comprises at least two wheels interconnected via afixed axle. In still other such embodiments, the rear wheel assemblycomprises at least two wheels interconnected via an axle pivotable abouta point perpendicular to the axis of the rear wheel-bearing armature.

In still yet other embodiments, the foldable vehicle includes at leastone luggage rack disposed on at least one of the wheel-bearingarmatures, said luggage rack being pivotable between at least twoconfigurations:

-   -   a first riding configuration wherein the longitudinal axes of        the wheel-bearing armature and the luggage rack have angular        offsets relative to each other, and    -   a second folded configuration wherein the longitudinal axes of        the wheel-bearing armature and the luggage rack are roughly        parallel.

In still yet other embodiments, the foldable vehicle of claim 1,includes at least one electric motor disposed within at least one of thewheel assemblies and an energy storage device interconnected therewith.

In still yet other embodiments, the foldable vehicle includes anelectronics interconnection disposed thereon, the electronicsinterconnection in signal communication with at least one sensorconfigured to deliver information on at least one vehicle parameter anddeliver information from the at least one sensor to the personalelectronic device. In some such embodiments, the at least one vehicleparameter is selected from the group consisting of vehicle speed, energyconsumption, energy reserve, mileage, and direction.

Additional embodiments and features are set forth in part in thedescription that follows, and in part will become apparent to thoseskilled in the art upon examination of the specification or may belearned by the practice of the disclosure. A further understanding ofthe nature and advantages of the present disclosure may be realized byreference to the remaining portions of the specification and thedrawings, which forms a part of this disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description will be more fully understood with reference to thefollowing figures, which are presented as exemplary embodiments of theinvention and should not be construed as a complete recitation of thescope of the invention, wherein:

FIGS. 1 a and 1 b provide perspective views of a three-wheeled foldableelectric vehicle in an open riding configuration (1 a), and a compactfolded configuration (1 b) in accordance with embodiments of theinvention.

FIGS. 1 c and 1 d provide front views of a three-wheeled foldableelectric vehicle in an open riding configuration (1 c), and a compactfolded configuration (1 d) in accordance with embodiments of theinvention.

FIGS. 1 e and 1 f provide back views of a three-wheeled foldableelectric vehicle in an open riding configuration (1 e), and a compactfolded configuration (1 f) in accordance with embodiments of theinvention.

FIGS. 1 g and 1 h provide top views of a three-wheeled foldable electricvehicle in an open riding configuration (1 g), and a compact foldedconfiguration (1 h) in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 2 a and 2 b provide perspective views of a two-wheeled foldableelectric vehicle in an open riding configuration (2 a), and a compactfolded configuration (2 b) in accordance with embodiments of theinvention.

FIGS. 2 c and 2 d provide front views of a two-wheeled foldable electricvehicle in an open riding configuration (2 c), and a compact foldedconfiguration (2 d) in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 2 e and 2 f provide back views of a two-wheeled foldable electricvehicle in an open riding configuration (2 e), and a compact foldedconfiguration (2 f) in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 2 g and 2 h provide top views of a two-wheeled foldable electricvehicle in an open riding configuration (2 g), and a compact foldedconfiguration (2 h) in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 3 a to 3 d show side views of a foldable electric vehicle and thefront wheel assembly and handlebar in an open riding configuration (3 a& 3 c), and a compact folded configuration (3 b & 3 d) in accordancewith embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 3 e provides a view perspective transparent view of a frontstructural armature (3 e) in accordance with embodiments of theinvention.

FIG. 4 provides a perspective view of a front wheel assembly inaccordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 5 a and 5 b show side views of a foldable electric vehicle in acompact folded configuration (5 a), and an open riding configuration (5b) in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 5 c provides a perspective view of a rear structural armature inaccordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 6 a to 6 d provide views of exemplary rear wheel assemblies andcomponents in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 7 a and 7 b provide perspective views of a seat-bearing armature(7 a) and a seat resilient member (7 b) in accordance with embodimentsof the invention.

FIGS. 8 a to 8 e provide perspective views of cooperative main hingecomponents for a front wheel-bearing armature (8 a), a rearwheel-bearing armature (8 b), a seat-bearing armature (8 c) inaccordance with embodiments of the invention, a side assembly view (8 d)of the main pivot hinge of the vehicle, and a cross-sectional view (8 e)of the main pivot hinge assembly along view A1 of FIG. 8 d in accordancewith embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 9 a and 9 b provide side views of a three-wheeled foldableelectric vehicle in an open riding configuration (9 a), and a compactfolded configuration (9 b) in accordance with embodiments of theinvention.

FIGS. 9 c and 9 d provide side views of a two-wheeled foldable electricvehicle in an open riding configuration (9 c), and a compact foldedconfiguration (9 d) in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 10 a to 10 k provide perspective views of a foldable electricvehicle and the folding mechanism in an open riding configuration (10 a& 10 b), in a series of intermediate positions between an open ridingconfiguration and a compact folded configuration (10 c to 10 h), and ina compact folded configuration (10 i to 10 k) in accordance withembodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 11 a and 11 b show side views of a foldable electric vehicle andthe rear foldable luggage rack in a compact folded configuration (11 a),and an open riding configuration (11 b) in accordance with embodimentsof the invention.

FIG. 12 provides a perspective view of a foldable electric vehiclehaving a personal electronic device docking station in accordance withembodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 13 a and 13 b provide schematic views of an exemplary chargingstation for use in association with an exemplary foldable electricvehicle in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Turning now to the drawings, foldable electric vehicles and devices forcharging such electric vehicles are described. In many embodiments, thefoldable electric vehicle generally comprises a plurality of armaturesall cooperatively moveable between a folded position wherein thearmatures are in a compact configuration suitable for storing andtransporting the vehicle, and an open position wherein the armatures arein a riding configuration suitable for the operation of the vehicle. Inmany such embodiments the pivotable armatures may have disposed thereonwheels, motors, charge storage devices, power distribution and controlcircuits, motor and vehicle controls and instruments, accessories andall other necessary devices and structures for the operation of thevehicle.

In some embodiments, the vehicle comprises two structural wheel-bearingarmatures (front and rear armatures), and a seat armature that are allpivotally interconnected along their lengths such that they may be movedbetween a closed position wherein the three armatures are disposedroughly parallel to each other in a compact folded configuration, and anopen riding configuration wherein a downward acute angle is formedbetween the two structural wheel-bearing armatures, and the seatarmature is disposed in a position to support a rider atop the vehicle.

In many embodiments, the pivot point between the three armatures isdisposed at the upper ends of the armatures distal to the wheels andseat bearing ends thereof, to form an overall ‘A-frame’ configurationfor the vehicle. In many other embodiments one of the structuralarmatures is configured to enclose a power source, such as, for example,a battery or plurality of batteries. In many embodiments this powersource enclosing armature is disposed as the front armature of thevehicle, and bears the front wheel thereof. In many embodiments, thepivotable second wheel-bearing armature includes one or more rear wheelsat the distal end thereof. In some embodiments these wheels may beinterconnected to the armature on either end of a truck assembly that ispivotable about a horizontal axis perpendicular to the axis of the reararmature such that the rider of the vehicle is capable of steering thevehicle by leaning in the desired direction of the turn. It will beunderstood that the rear wheel assembly may include a single wheel ormultiple wheels interconnected via an axle.

The folding and locking mechanism of the vehicle, in many embodiments,interconnects the three armatures of the vehicle in a configuration thatallows the disengagement of the locking mechanism and the folding of thearmatures of the vehicle via the manipulation of one of the armatures ofthe vehicle. In some such embodiments, the locking mechanism isdisengaged by manipulating the seat-bearing armature of the vehicle. Inother embodiments the locking mechanism of the vehicle includes aresilient member interconnected with the seat-bearing armature thaturges the seat-bearing armature into the open and closed positions whenthe vehicle is placed into such configurations.

As shown in FIGS. 1 a and 1 b, in many embodiments a three-wheeledfoldable vehicle is provided comprising at least three armatures: afront wheel-bearing armature (12) having disposed at the distal endthereon at least a front wheel assembly (13), a rear wheel-bearingarmature (14) having disposed at the distal end thereon at least a rearwheel assembly (15), and a seat-bearing armature (16) for supporting arider while operating the vehicle. These armatures are pivotallyconnected about a single pivot hinge (18) that allows movement of thearmatures from an open riding configuration, shown in one exemplaryembodiment in FIG. 1 a, to a folded compact configuration, shown in oneexemplary embodiment in FIG. 1 b.

As shown, in FIG. 1 a, the relative arrangement of the armatures of thevehicle in these configurations may be defined by the axial arrangementof the armatures around the pivot hinge (18), wherein each armature isdefined by an axis (20, 22 and 24). In some embodiments in the openriding configuration the front and rear armatures (12 & 14) arepositioned such that a downward acute angle (26) is created between theaxes (20 & 22) of the two wheel-bearing armatures. Although a particularangular arrangement is provide in FIG. 1 a, it should be understood thatany angle suitable to form a usable riding configuration may be formeddepending on the specific arrangement and geometry of the wheels andarmatures desired. For example, a suitable angle may be determined byfactors such as the distance between the wheels of the vehicle, theheight of the seat to the ground, etc.

In addition, in some embodiments of this open riding configuration theseat-bearing armature (16) is pivoted such that its axis (26) isdisposed at an angle relative to the ground such that a riding platform(28) is formed on which a rider may be seated to operate the vehicle. Asshown in FIG. 1 a, in some embodiments the riding platform (28) may beconfigured such that its axis (26) is roughly parallel to the ground. Inother embodiments adjustment mechanisms may be provided to adjust theposition of the riding platform relative to the wheel-bearing armaturesas desired by the rider. In such embodiments adjustments might includeheight relative to the ground, distance relative to the handlebars,angle relative to the pivot hinge (18), etc. Although one embodiment ofa riding platform (28) comprising a bicycle-style seat is shown in FIG.1 a, it will be understood that the riding platform may take any form,style or shape suitable to support a rider.

As shown in FIG. 1 b, in many embodiments, in the compact foldedconfiguration the front, rear and seat armatures (12, 14 & 16) are allpivoted about the pivot hinge (18) such that their axes (22, 24 & 26)are disposed roughly parallel to each other. In some embodiments of thevehicle, such as the one shown in FIG. 1 b, the axes (22, 24 & 26) ofthe armatures are disposed parallel on to the other, and the armatures(12, 14 & 16) themselves are moved into a configuration in which theyare positioned adjacent to one another. In one such embodiment, thepivoting of the armatures comprises a scissoring motion about the pivothinge such that the distal ends of each of the armatures (28, 30 & 32)come together to face in a single direction, again as shown in FIG. 1 b.

Additional views of the vehicle (10) of FIGS. 1 a and 1 b, in open andclosed positions, including: front views (1 c & 1 d), rear views (1 eand 1 f), and top views (1 g and 1 h) are provided showing the elementsdescribed above.

Although the above description and the embodiments of the vehicle shownin FIGS. 1 a to 1 h, describe an electric vehicle having a three-wheelconfiguration (in which the front wheel assembly (13) comprises a singlewheel and the rear wheel assembly (15) comprises two wheels), it will beunderstood that other wheel configurations may be provided that haveconsiderably the same elements and operate in a manner commensurate tothat described above. For example, FIGS. 2 a to 2 h provide perspectiveviews (2 a and 2 b), front views (2 c and 2 d), rear views (2 e and 2f), and top views (2 g and 2 h) of an electric vehicle (10) havingsubstantially the same structure and function as described above withrespect to FIGS. 1 a to 5 comprising a two-wheel configuration (in whichboth the front (13) and rear (15) wheel assemblies comprises a singlewheel).

Turning now to the detailed construction of the vehicle, several of theelements comprising the vehicle will be described, including the frontand rear wheel-bearing armatures, and the seat-bearing armature and allattendant structures and accessories. Examining first the frontwheel-bearing armature, FIGS. 3 a to 3 e provide illustrations ofembodiments of the vehicle (10) and the front wheel-bearing armature(12).

As shown in FIGS. 3 a to 3 d, in many embodiments the vehicle (10)comprises a front wheel-bearing armature (12) having at least one frontwheel assembly (13) mounted thereto, and a steering mechanism, such as ahandlebar or other suitable structure (34) interconnected therewith. Insome such embodiments, the steering mechanism (34) can be used to alterthe orientation of the front wheel assembly (13) relative to thevehicle, and thus to steer the vehicle when in the open/riding position(FIG. 3 a), and to maneuver the vehicle when in the closed/compactposition (FIG. 3 b). Although in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3 a to 3d, the wheel assembly (13) is pivotally interconnected to the frontwheel-bearing armature (12) through a rotatable pivot interconnection(36), in other embodiments the wheel assembly might be fixedly attachedto the front wheel-bearing assembly, and the entire front wheel-bearingassembly could be pivotable relative to the remaining vehicle structure.Regardless, in many embodiments the steering mechanism may beinterconnected relative to the wheel assembly and front wheel-bearingarmature such that the orientation of at least the front wheel relativeto the remainder of the vehicle may be altered.

Although a “T”-shaped handlebar steering mechanism (34) is shown in thefigures, it will be understood that the steering mechanism may be of anyshape suitable and dimension such that a rider may use the mechanism toalter the directional motion of the vehicle. For example, a “U”-shapedhandle bar steering mechanism may be contemplated. In addition, in someembodiments the height of the steering mechanism may also be adjustable,such as, for example, via a telescoping mechanism, for convenience andcomfort of use, and in some embodiments to allow the steering mechanismto be collapsed for storage such that the height of the handle bars donot extend above the height of the remainder of the vehicle. Inembodiments, such as those shown in FIGS. 3 a to 3 e, having handles(37) that extend out from the sides of framework, such as in a “T”configuration the handle extensions may retract or fold into a morecompact form.

In many embodiments, as shown schematically in FIGS. 3 a to 3 d, thesteering mechanism (34) may be pivoted between an open position (FIGS. 3a and 3 c), in which the axis (38) of the steering mechanism is angledaway from the axis (20) of the front wheel-bearing armature (12), and aclosed compacted position (FIGS. 3 b and 3 d), in which the axis of thesteering mechanism is aligned along the vertical axis of the frontwheel-bearing armature. In many embodiments, as shown in detail in FIGS.3 c and 3 d, the steering mechanism (34) may be moved between the openand closed positions by sliding the lower end (40) of the steeringmechanism along a locking channel (42) disposed on the wheel assembly(13) of the front wheel-bearing armature (12). In some such embodiments,the steering mechanism (34) may be interconnected with the wheelassembly (13) via an upper pivot pin (44) that is disposed within apivot channel (46) formed in the steering mechanism, and a lower lockingpin (48) disposed on the steering mechanism that moves within thelocking channel (42) of the wheel assembly. Although the pins andchannels are disposed in the illustrated embodiment in a particularconfiguration, it should be understood that pins and channels may bedistributed between the wheel assembly and steering mechanism such thatthere is a constrained pivotable interconnection therebetween. In manyembodiments, the lower locking pin (48) is configured to slide withinthe locking channel (42) and move up and down therein between variouspositions therealong thus causing the steering mechanism (34) to pivotabout the upper pivot pin (44) relative to the wheel assembly (13) andthe front wheel-bearing armature (12), as shown by the dashed arrows(45) in FIG. 3 a.

In many embodiments, to allow the steering mechanism to move within thechannel and lock into a desired position, an internal tension spring(not shown) may be provided in association with the steering mechanism(34) and one or more of the pins (44 and 48) such that the steeringmechanism may be securely locked into a desired position. In some suchembodiments, both locked positions of the handlebar may be disengaged byeither pressing downwards or pulling upwards on the handlebar, asappropriate for the design and arrangement of the locking channel andpins, and then rotated to the desired lock position about the upperpivot pin (44) along the locking channel (42). For example, in theembodiments shown in FIGS. 3 a to 3 d, the locking positions of thelocking channel (42) comprise a series of notches (50) formed along thelower edge of the locking channel. Accordingly, in such an embodiment aspring may be provided to resiliently urge the locking pin (48) into thenotch (50) of the locking channel (42). Finally, although only atwo-position angular arrangement is shown between the steering mechanism(34) and the front wheel-bearing armature (12), it should be understoodthat other angles may be formed, or the angle of the steering mechanismrelative to the vehicle may be made continuously or incrementallyadjustable to allow the rider to adjust the riding position of thevehicle. In many embodiments, such a function may be provided by formingdifferent locking positions (50) along the locking channel (42).

In many embodiments, it may be desirable to prevent motion of the frontwheel assembly relative to the vehicle in the compact folded or closedposition, i.e., to lock the orientation of the wheel relative to thevehicle. In such embodiments a wheel locking mechanism may be providedto prevent the wheel and/or wheel assembly (13) from changingorientation relative to the vehicle in such a folded closedconfiguration. Although any suitable wheel locking mechanism may beprovided, in some embodiments a tab (52) is provided on the pivotableportion of the wheel or wheel assembly (13) such that in the closefolded configuration (FIGS. 3 b and 3 d) the tab engages the adjacentrear wheel-bearing assembly (14) or other immobile portion of thevehicle to prevent independent motion of the wheel or wheel assembly,and thereby a change in the orientation of the wheel and/or wheelassembly relative to the vehicle.

Turning now to the construction of the front wheel-bearing assembly(12), as shown in FIG. 3 e, in many embodiments the front wheel-bearingarmature is formed of an elongated body that may be made hollow suchthat the body defines an interior volume (54). The armature may beformed from any material suitable to provide sufficient structuralsupport to the vehicle, such as, for example, a metal, composite, orpolymer. In many embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3 e, the weight of thefront wheel-bearing armature (12) may be lightened by includingfenestrations (56) along the elongated body. Although certainfenestrations are shown in the figures, the number and configuration ofsuch fenestrations may take any geometry or shape suitable to lightenthe armature while maintaining the structural integrity of the armature.

In many embodiments, the front wheel-bearing armature (12) may comprise,at its lower end (58), an interconnection point (60) such that a wheelassembly may be interconnected therewith. In some such embodiments, suchan interconnection may be pivotable such that the wheel assembly maypivot relative to the front wheel-bearing assembly.

In many embodiments, the front wheel-bearing armature (12) may furthercomprise a front main pivot hinge bracket (62) disposed along its lengthand configured such that the front main pivot hinge bracket may becooperatively coupled with the main pivot hinge brackets provided on therear wheel-bearing armature (14) and the seat-bearing armature (16) toform the vehicle main pivot hinge (18) to allow the front wheel-bearingarmature (12) to pivot relative to the other armatures (14 and 16) thatform the structure of the vehicle. Such a front main pivot hinge bracket(62) may also comprise front locking mechanism elements (64) forengaging a cooperative locking mechanism on one or more of the otherarmatures (14 and 16) of the vehicle to prevent unintended movement ofthe armatures relative to one another. In some embodiments, as shown inFIG. 3 e, the locking mechanism (64) comprises a series of lockinggrooves that are configured to engage with a cooperative locking pindisposed on the rear wheel-bearing armature (14).

The front wheel-bearing armature may also comprise certain accessories,such as, for example, lights (66), charging connections (68), personalelectronic docking connections, (not shown), etc. Although the energystorage and vehicle propulsion systems may be distributed across thevarious armatures and elements of the vehicle, in many embodiments theenergy storage elements, such as, for example, one or more batteries maybe disposed within the internal volume (54) of the front wheel-bearingarmature along with any required electronics, electric interconnections,etc. necessary for the operation of the electric vehicle.

As shown in FIG. 4, the front wheel assembly (13) generally comprises awheel (70) rotatable interconnected with the assembly, such as via anaxle or other suitable rotatable interconnection. As described inrelation to FIGS. 3 a to 3 e, the wheel assembly in many embodiments mayalso include a pivotable interconnection (72) to pivotallyinterconnection the wheel assembly to the front wheel-bearing armature(12). In many embodiments, the wheel assembly (13) may also comprise asteering mechanism interconnection (74) that may be configured to allowthe steering mechanism (34) to pivot about the wheel assembly, therebyallowing the axis of the steering mechanism to be repositioned relativeto the front wheel-bearing armature, and in turn the other armatures ofthe vehicle. The front wheel assembly may also include front footrests(76), which may take any suitable form, such as, for example, a peg orpedal. Such a footrest may be foldable or retractable to reduce theprofile of the footrest relative to the wheel assembly. Finally, thewheel assembly may include other accessories, such as, for example, afender or mud-flap (78) mounted about the wheel (70) to decrease wateror other debris from being splattered against the rider duringoperation. Although the motor or other propulsion means may bedistributed across the vehicle and interconnected via suitable driveinterconnections, in many embodiments the vehicle propulsion mechanism(not shown) may be disposed within the wheel assembly, such as withinthe hub (79) of the wheel (70) to provide motive force to the vehicle.In many such embodiments the propulsion mechanism may include anelectric motor disposed within the hub of the wheel (79) of the wheelassembly (13) and electrically interconnected with the energy storageelements disposed elsewhere in the vehicle.

Examining now the rear wheel-bearing armature, FIGS. 5 a to 5 f provideviews of embodiments of the vehicle (10) and the rear wheel-bearingarmature (14). As shown in FIGS. 5 a and 5 b, in many embodiments thevehicle (10) comprises a rear wheel-bearing armature (14) having aseat-bearing assembly (16) interconnected therewith. In suchembodiments, the rear wheel-bearing armature (14) and seat-bearingarmatures (16) are both pivotally interconnected at a first end (80)with the front wheel-bearing assembly (12) via a pivot hinge assembly(18) about which both of the wheel-bearing structural armatures and theseat-bearing post may all pivot relative to each other. The seat-bearingarmature (16) in some such embodiments may be further interconnectedwith the rear wheel-bearing armature (14) through a fourth armaturereferred to herein as a or seat support element (82) to provide furtherweight-bearing support to the seating platform (84) of the seat-bearingarmature during operation of the vehicle. The rear wheel-bearingarmature (14) further comprises a rear wheel assembly (15) at a secondend (86) distal from the pivot hinge assembly (18), as will be describedin greater detail below.

Turning now to the construction of the rear wheel-bearing assembly (14),as shown in FIG. 5 c, in many embodiments the rear wheel-bearingarmature is formed of an elongated body that may be made hollow suchthat the body defines an interior volume (88). The armature (14) may beformed from any material suitable to provide sufficient structuralsupport to the vehicle, such as, for example, a metal, composite, orpolymer. In many embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5 c, the weight of therear wheel-bearing armature (14) may be lightened by includingfenestrations (90) along the body thereof. Although certainfenestrations are shown in the figures, the number and configuration ofsuch fenestrations may take any geometry or shape suitable to lightenthe armature while maintaining the structural integrity of the armature.

As further shown in FIGS. 5 a to 5 c, in many embodiments, the rearwheel-bearing armature (14) may comprise, at its lower end (92), aninterconnection point (94) such that a wheel assembly may beinterconnected therewith. In some such embodiments, such aninterconnection may comprise a pivot point (96) such that the wheelassembly may pivot relative to the rear wheel-bearing assembly, as willbe described in greater detail below.

In many embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 5 a to 5 c, the rearwheel-bearing armature (14) may further comprise a rear main pivot hingebracket (98) disposed along its length and configured such that the rearmain pivot hinge bracket may be cooperatively coupled with the mainpivot hinge brackets on the other armatures (12 and 16) to combine toform the vehicle main pivot hinge (18) to allow the rear wheel-bearingarmature (14) to pivot relative to the other armatures (12 and 16) thatform the structure of the vehicle. Such a rear main pivot hinge bracket(98) may also comprise a locking mechanism (99) configured to engage acooperative locking mechanism on one or more of the other armatures (12and 16) of the vehicle to prevent unintended movement of the armaturesrelative to one another. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5 c, thelocking mechanism (99) may comprise a movable pin (100) and armature(101) configured to engage cooperative locking grooves on the rearwheel-bearing armature (103), front wheel-bearing armature andcooperative locking portions on the seat-bearing armature, as will bedescribed in greater detail below.

In many embodiments the rear wheel-bearing armature (14) also comprisesa seat-bearing armature support groove (102) configured to cooperativelyand slidingly engage the seat-bearing armature support (82). In someembodiments, as shown in FIG. 5 c, the seat-bearing armature supportgroove (102) delineates a curved path along which the seat-bearingarmature support (82) may slidingly travel between a first position(104) at which the seat-bearing armature (16) is locked into a ridingposition where the seat-bearing armature is extended outward away fromthe rear wheel-bearing armature, and a second position (106) at whichthe seat-bearing armature is locked into a compact position where theseat-bearing armature is folded against or flush with the rearwheel-bearing armature. In some such embodiments, the path includeslocking positions, formed for example of notches (108) at either end ofthe groove (102) where the riding position is engaged when thesupporting member is locked into position in the slot higher up alongthe structural armature (104), and where the compacted position isengaged when the supporting member is locked into position in the slotlower down along the structural armature (106). As will be discussed ingreater detail below, the seat-bearing armature support (82) may beformed of a resilient member (125), and configured such that when saidseat-bearing armature (16) is pivoted into the locking position (106) ofthe groove (102) the resilient member is placed into tension such that aresilient locking force is applied to lock the seat-bearing armatureinto position against the adjacent wheel-bearing armature. In addition,although not shown, in some embodiments a resilient spring may beprovided to restrain the seat-bearing armature support within the grooveand notches and to assist in directing it along the groove duringoperation.

Although not shown, other accessories may be included with the rearwheel-bearing armature, including lights, charging connections, personalelectronic docking connections, luggage racks, etc. Although the energystorage and vehicle propulsion systems may be distributed across thevarious armatures and elements of the vehicle, in many embodiments theenergy storage elements, such as, for example, one or more batteries maybe disposed within the internal volume (88) of the rear wheel-bearingarmature along with any required electronics, electric interconnections,etc. necessary for the operation of the electric vehicle.

As described above a rear wheel assembly (15) is mounted to the lowerend (86) of the rear wheel-bearing armature (14). As shown in FIGS. 6 ato 6 d, this rear wheel assembly may comprise one or multiple wheels inaccordance with embodiments of the vehicle. In many embodiments the rearwheel assembly (15) comprises an axle (110) fixedly attached at thelower end (86) of the rear wheel-bearing armature (14). In someembodiments this fixed axle may comprise a plurality of wheels (112) asshown in FIG. 6 a, or a single wheel as shown in FIG. 6 d. In someembodiments the rear wheel assembly (15) may include resilient members(114), such as shock absorbing springs, to provide a shock dampening tothe vehicle. In some such embodiments, the wheels of the rear wheelassembly may also be affixed to the rear wheel-bearing armature (14) ina configuration that would allow the wheels to move relative to the rearwheel-bearing armature. In one such embodiment, illustrated in FIGS. 6 band 6 c, the rear wheel assembly (15) is pivotally interconnected to therear wheel-bearing armature (14) via a rear wheel pivot hinge (116) suchthat the wheels (112) of the rear wheel assembly are pivotable about ahorizontal axis (117) perpendicular to the axis (24) of the reararmature such that the rider of the vehicle is capable of steering thevehicle by leaning in the desired direction of the turn. (A crosssection of such a pivotable interconnection is shown in FIG. 6 c. Thisis cross-section AL of FIG. 6 b.)

Finally, it will be understood that in many embodiments the either thefront or rear wheel assemblies may be configured as a removable and/orinterchangeable structure, such that the wheels of the vehicle may beremoved and the vehicle can be reconfigured between a single ordual-wheel design as desired by the user. This interchangeability can beaccomplished by interconnecting one or both of the front or rear wheelassemblies (whether single or dual wheel design) via removable bolts, ora quick-connect attachment, such as, for example, a spring-loaded pin,latch, or other coupling. In embodiments where a two-wheel vehicledesign is desired, the vehicle may further include a kickstand orotherwise retractable support, such that the vehicle may stand whenunattended by the user.

Examining now the seat-bearing armature, FIGS. 7 a and 7 b provideperspective views of the seat-bearing armature (16) and the seat-bearingarmature support (82), respectively. As shown in FIG. 7 a, in manyembodiments the seat-bearing armature (16) generally comprises anelongated armature having at one end (118) a seat main pivot hingebracket (120) and a seating platform (84) at an opposite end thereof. Insome embodiments the seat main pivot hinge bracket (120) is configuredto cooperatively interconnect with the main pivot hinge brackets of thefront and rear wheel-bearing armatures (12 and 14) to form the mainvehicle hinge pivot (18) to allow the seat-bearing armature (16) topivot relative to the other armatures (12 and 14) that form thestructure of the vehicle. Such a seat pivot hinge bracket (120) may alsocomprise a locking mechanism configured to engage a cooperative lockingmechanism on one or more of the other armatures (12 and 16) of thevehicle to prevent unintended movement of the armatures relative to oneanother. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 7 a, the lockingmechanism may comprise a movable lock disengagement pin (122) configuredto engage cooperative locking armatures on the rear wheel-bearingarmature such that the engagement and disengagement of the lockingmechanism is activated by manipulating the seat-bearing armature, aswill be described in greater detail below.

In many embodiments, the seat-bearing armature (16) also comprises aseat-bearing armature support bracket (124) for pivotallyinterconnecting the seat-bearing armature with a seat-bearing armaturesupport member (82). In some embodiments the seat-bearing armaturesupport member may be formed of a resilient member (125), such as, forexample, a shock absorber, as shown in FIG. 7 b. In such embodiments,the resilient seat-bearing armature supporting member (82) is pivotallyinterconnected with the seat-bearing armature (16) at one end through aseat-bearing support pin (126) (or other suitable cooperative pivotableinterconnection element), and slidingly interconnected with the rearwheel-bearing armature (14) at its second end through a sliding pin(128) (or other suitable cooperative sliding interconnection element),to form a triangulated support structure that cantilevers theseat-bearing armature (16) into a riding position in the open/ridingconfiguration of the vehicle to dampens the shocks or bumps of the roadsuch that the rider experiences a smoother ride. In addition, as will bediscussed in greater detail below, the resilient member (125) of theseat-bearing armature support (82) may also be configured such that whensaid seat-bearing armature (16) is pivoted into the locking position theresilient member is placed into tension such that a resilient lockingforce is applied to lock the seat-bearing armature into position againstthe adjacent wheel-bearing armature.

The front wheel-bearing armature (16) may also comprise certainaccessories, such as, for example, lights, charging connections,personal electronic docking connections, (not shown), etc. Although theenergy storage and vehicle propulsion systems may be distributed acrossthe various armatures and elements of the vehicle, in many embodimentsthe energy storage elements, such as, for example, one or more batteriesmay be disposed within the internal volume (130) of the frontwheel-bearing armature along with any required electronics, electricinterconnections, etc. necessary for the operation of the electricvehicle. The armature may be formed from any material suitable toprovide sufficient structural support to the vehicle, such as, forexample, a metal, composite, or polymer. Although not shown, in manyembodiments the weight of the front wheel-bearing armature may belightened by including fenestrations along the elongated body thereof.Any number and configuration of such fenestrations may take any geometryor shape suitable to lighten the armature while maintaining thestructural integrity of the armature. The position of the seat-bearingarmature (16) and/or the seat platform (84) may be adjustable relativeto the remainder of the vehicle. In such embodiments adjustments mightinclude height relative to the ground, distance relative to thehandlebars, angle relative to the main vehicle pivot hinge (18), etc.Although one embodiment of a seating platform (84) comprising abicycle-style seat is shown in FIG. 7 a, it will be understood that theriding platform may take any form, style or shape suitable to support arider.

As shown in FIGS. 8 a to 8 e, in many embodiments the vehicle (10)includes a main vehicle pivot hinge assembly (18) about which both ofthe wheel-bearing structural armatures (12 and 14) and the seat-bearing(16) armatures are pivotally connected. In addition, the seat-bearingarmature support (82) may also be configured such that when saidseat-bearing armature (16) is pivoted into the locking position theresilient member is placed into tension such that a resilient lockingforce is applied to lock the seat-bearing armature into position againstthe adjacent wheel-bearing armature.

As shown in detail in FIGS. 8 b to 8 e, each of the armatures includes acooperative pivot hinge bracket (62, 98 and 120), each of which engageand pivot about a main pivot pin (132). An exemplary embodiment of theassembly of these elements into the main vehicle pivot hinge assembly(18) is shown in cross-section in FIG. 8 b. As shown, in manyembodiments the cooperative pivot hinge brackets are disposed in anested arrangement forming a hollow pivot passage (134), wherein theseat pivot hinge bracket (120) forms the innermost element, the rearpivot hinge bracket (98) the outermost element, and the front pivothinge bracket (62) is disposed therebetween, although this configurationmay be reordered without effecting the operation or function of thefolding function of the vehicle. The main pivot pin (132) is insertedthrough the hollow pivot passage (134) to interconnect the threearmatures in a pivotable arrangement.

In many embodiments, as will be described in relation to FIGS. 8 c to 8e, the main vehicle pivot hinge assembly (18) may further comprise acooperative locking mechanism configured to be moved between a firstlocking position where the vehicle, including structural armature andseat-bearing post, are disposed and secured in the open/riding position,and a second locking position where the vehicle is disposed and securedin the closed/compacted position. Although such a cooperative lockingmechanism may take any suitable form, in some embodiments, as shown inthe figures, the mechanism may take the form of a pin and groovearrangement. In one such embodiment, a pivotable armature (100) and pin(101) disposed in association with the rear pivot hinge bracket (98) isconfigured to disengage and engage locking grooves (64) formed into theseat pivot hinge bracket (62) through the action of seat lockdisengagement pin (122) disposed on the seat-bearing armature (16) suchthat the armatures (12 and 14) are prevented from pivoting in relationto each other while the pin (101) is engaged in one of the lockinggrooves (64). As shown, two positions are described (64 a and 64 b). Aswill be described in greater detail below, in embodiments the lockingpin (101) is disengaged from the open/riding position (groove 64 a) andthe closed/compacted position (groove 64 b) by pulling up on theseat-bearing armature (16) such that disengagement pin (122) engagesarmature (100), thereby lifting pin (101) out of groove (64). In somesuch embodiments, the locking pin (101) moves between the lockingpositions (64 a and 64 b) by sliding along the top edge (136) of therear pivot hinge assembly (62). Again, it should be understood thatalthough a specific arrangement of cooperative locking elements aredescribed, any suitable locking mechanism and arrangement of elementsmay be provided. In many embodiments, such locking mechanisms andarrangements are configured such that the locking mechanism isdisengaged by lifting the seat-bearing armature. Likewise, although onlytwo locking positions are described above, it will be understood thatintermediary locking positions may be defined such that desirablevehicle configurations may be stably formed.

FIGS. 9 a to 9 d provide schematics showing the movement (arrows) of thevarious elements of the vehicle (10) relative to one another. As shown,in addition to the wheel and seat-bearing armatures (12, 14 & 16), otherelements of the vehicle may be provided which cooperate in forming theopen and compacted forms of the vehicle, including steering mechanism(34), in which the axis (36) of the handlebars may be pivoted between aposition having an angular offset (38) from the axis (20) of the frontwheel-bearing armature (12), and a position where the axis of thehandlebars is parallel to the axis of the front wheel-bearing armature.The seat-bearing armature (16), which may also be configured such thatwhen said seat-bearing armature support (82) is pivoted into the lockingposition the resilient member (125) is placed into tension (as shown byarrows in FIGS. 9 b and 9 d) such that a resilient locking force isapplied to lock the seat-bearing armature into position against theadjacent wheel-bearing armature. Additionally, a storage rack (140) orother similar accessories could be provided that would be pivotablebetween an open position where a platform is provided suitable forholding objects, and a compacted position where the platform is foldedagainst the body of the vehicle. It should be understood that though theluggage rack is shown disposed on the rear wheel-bearing armature, asimilar structure could be disposed on other portions of the vehicle.

Turning now to the operation of the folding mechanism of the electricvehicle (10), as described above, and as will be discussed in relationto FIGS. 10 a to 10 k, in many embodiments the two wheel-bearingarmatures (12 and 14), and the seat-bearing armature (16) of the vehicle(10) are all pivotally interconnected at the same pivot point (18) suchthat a single folding mechanism operates to moveably reposition all thearmatures of the vehicle cooperatively. As shown, in many embodimentsthe folding mechanism comprises a central hinge pin (18) about whicheach of the armatures (12, 14 and 16) are pivotally interconnected. Alocking mechanism (99) comprising, in many embodiments, a pin and groovearrangement, disposed at the proximal end of the rear wheel-bearingarmature (14) may also be provided to lock the armatures of the vehicleinto open and compact configurations. In many such embodiments thelocking mechanism (99) is disengaged by manipulating the seat-bearingarmature (16), such as, for example, by lifting upward on the armature.

As shown in FIGS. 10 a and 10 b, in many embodiments the seat-bearingarmature (16) may also be pivotally connected with a resilientsupporting member (82), such as, for example, a shock absorber to form atriangulated support structure that cantilevers the seat post into ariding position and dampens the shocks or bumps of the road such thatthe rider experiences a smoother ride. In such embodiments, theresilient supporting member may be pivotally interconnected (126) withthe seat armature (16) at one end, such as, for example, via a pivotpin, and slidingly interconnected (128) with the rear wheel-bearingarmature (14) at its second end. In such embodiments, the resilientsupporting member (82) may slide within a channel or slot (102) formedinto the rear wheel-bearing armature between upper (108) and lower (106)locking positions.

During operation of some embodiments, the locking mechanism (99) isdisengaged from both the open/riding position and the closed/compactedposition by pulling up on the seat-bearing post (16), as shown in FIGS.10 c to 10 e. In some such embodiments, the locking mechanism (99)includes a pin and groove mechanism, wherein the seat lock disengagementpin (122) of the seat-bearing armature (16) engages the armature (100)on the rear locking mechanism to lift the rear locking pin (101) out ofengagement with the locking grooves (64 and 103, not shown) on the frontand rear armatures to allow the armatures to move between the lockingpositions. In addition, in some embodiments the sliding interconnection(128) on the seat-bearing support (82) is lifted free of notch (108) onthe locking groove (102) to allow the sliding interconnection to slidealong groove (102). In addition, in some embodiments a resilient spring(142) may be provided to apply a resilient guiding force to the slidinginterconnection (128) of the seat-bearing armature support within thegroove (102) and notches (106 and 108), thereby assisting in directingit along the groove during operation, thereby advancing the movement andoperation of the folding mechanism of the vehicle.

As shown in FIGS. 10 f to 10 h, once the locking mechanism (99) and theseat-bearing support (82) are disengaged by raising the seat up, thearmatures may be pivoted from the open configuration to the closedconfiguration. In some embodiments, as the armatures (12, 14 and 16)pivot downward (as indicated by the arrow) the locking pin (101) slidesalong the top edge (136) of the front pivot hinge bracket (62).Likewise, in many embodiments, the resilient supporting member (82)slides within locking channel or slot (102) formed into the rearwheel-bearing armature (14), said channel or slot delineating a pathbetween closed and open positions of the mechanism.

As shown in FIGS. 10 i to 10 k, once the armatures reach their terminusin the closed/compact configuration wherein the armatures are adjacentin a roughly parallel alignment, the locking mechanism (99) reengages tolock the wheel-bearing armatures into the closed configuration. Inparticular, as shown in the figures, in many embodiments the seatlocking pin (122) disengages the armature (100) allowing the rearlocking pin (101) to engage the second locking groove (64 b) on thefront pivot hinge bracket (62), as shown in FIG. 10 k. The pin (101)also reengages the rear locking groove (103) on the rear wheel-bearingarmature (14) thereby locking the front and rear wheel-bearing armaturesin the closed configuration where the axes of the armatures are roughlyparallel such that a compact form is obtained. The seat-bearing armaturesupport element (82), may also be configured such that when saidseat-bearing armature (16) is pivoted into the locking position (106)along the locking groove (102), the resilient member (125) is placedinto tension (as shown by arrows in FIG. 10 j) such that a resilientlocking force is applied to lock the seat-bearing armature into positionagainst the adjacent wheel-bearing armature. In addition, in someembodiments a resilient spring (143) may be provided in association withthe pivoting interconnection (126) to apply a resilient guiding force tothe pivoting interconnection of the seat-bearing armature support (82)thereby assisting in locking the seat-bearing armature support into aclosed position within the body of the rear wheel-bearing armature (14)and, in turn, the seat-bearing armature into a closed position againstthe adjacent rear wheel-bearing armature (14) during a foldingoperation.

It should be understood that although the illustrated embodiments showspecific configurations of locking mechanisms, including particulargeometries, dispositions and configurations of pins, channels, grooves,notches, etc. that these elements could be modified substantially whilemaintaining the functionality of the vehicle folding mechanism such thata single cooperative pivot point and locking mechanism is providedcapable of being engaged and operated to simultaneously folding thearmatures of the vehicle from an open/riding position such that the seatis extended outward away from the structural armature, and asecond/closed position at which the seat is locked into a compactposition where the seat is folded against or flush with the secondstructural armature, via the manipulation of one of the armatures of thevehicle, such as, for example, the seat-bearing armature.

An optional element that may be provided on the vehicle (10) is aluggage rack (140). In many embodiments, the luggage rack comprises anelongated platform that may be disposed in any suitable location on thevehicle. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 11 a and 11 b, theluggage rack (140) may be disposed along the length of the rearwheel-bearing armature (in many embodiments at the lower end (86) of thearmature (14). Such a rack, in many embodiments may also be configuredsuch that it is repositionable between open and compact configurations.In some embodiments the luggage rack may be pivotable between a closedposition (shown in FIG. 11 a) where the luggage rack is folded againstthe rear wheel-bearing armature, and an open position (shown in FIG. 11b) where the luggage rack forms a platform suitable for the support ofobjects placed thereon, such an action may be mechanically coupled tothe folding of the armatures or may be independently actuated. In somesuch embodiments, the position of the luggage rack (140) relative to therear wheel-bearing armature (14) may be defined by the axis (144) of theluggage rack. In one such embodiment, in the open position (11 b) theaxis (144) of the luggage rack forms an angle relative to the axis (22)of the rear wheel-bearing armature, while in the closed position (11 a)the axis of the luggage rack is substantially parallel to the axis ofthe rear wheel-bearing armature. It should be understood that, althoughthe luggage rack (140) is disposed on the rear wheel-bearing armature(14) of the vehicle, it may be positioned anywhere along the vehiclesuch a suitable object supporting platform may be formed.

In still other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 12, the vehicle (10) mayinclude other electrical components including lights (146) andinterconnections for accessories (148), such as, for example, mobilehandsets or other personal electronics. The electronics interconnectionmay be disposed anywhere on the vehicle suitable for use. In someembodiments the electronics interconnection is place in signalcommunication with at least one sensor configured to deliver informationon at least one vehicle parameter and deliver information from the atleast one sensor to the personal electronic device. In some suchembodiments the at least one vehicle parameter is selected from thegroup consisting of vehicle speed, energy consumption, energy reserve,mileage, and direction.

In embodiments, the disclosure is also directed to a charging stationconfigured to electrically interconnect to the vehicle such thatelectrical power can be introduced to the power source via one or moreelectrical connectors disposed on a portion of the external structure ofthe vehicle. In some embodiments, the electrical connectors are disposedon the front structural armature of the vehicle and the charging stationis configured to engage the vehicle in a closed/compact configuration.In other embodiments, the charging station further includes vehiclesecuring assemblies for securely attaching and the locking the vehicleinto a charging position where the electrical connectors on the chargingstation and vehicle are electrically interconnected. An exemplarycharging station (150) for use with a foldable electric vehicle is alsoshown in FIGS. 13 a and 13 b, in many embodiments the charging stationgenerally comprises a framework (152) having one or more chargingcontacts (154) that are configured to electrically interconnect with afoldable electric vehicle (156) to provide a power recharging source.Although one configuration of a charging station is shown in thefigures, it will be understood that the location, number size andconfiguration of the charging contacts and vehicle interconnection maybe altered to suit the specific design of the vehicle. In addition,although a single unit is described, in embodiments multiple chargingstations can be provided and interconnected through a single centralkiosk for controlling the stations, payments and controlcharging/availability.

DOCTRINE OF EQUIVALENTS

As can be inferred from the above discussion, the above-mentionedconcepts can be implemented in a variety of arrangements in accordancewith embodiments of the invention. For example, though the foldablevehicle has been described in relation to an electric vehicle, it willbe understood that the construction and folding mechanism describedcould be adapted for use with other propulsion types, including, forexample, a gasoline powered internal combustion engine. Likewise,although the vehicle has been described in relation to two wheel-bearingarmatures, it will be understood that any number of armatures could beused along with the proposed vehicle folding mechanism.

Accordingly, although the present invention has been described incertain specific aspects, many additional modifications and variationswould be apparent to those skilled in the art. It is therefore to beunderstood that the present invention may be practiced otherwise thanspecifically described. Thus, embodiments of the present inventionshould be considered in all respects as illustrative and notrestrictive.

What is claimed is:
 1. A foldable vehicle comprising: at least twowheel-bearing armatures having first and second ends and defining awheel-bearing armature longitudinal axis, each of said wheel-bearingarmatures having at least one wheel assembly interconnected to thesecond end thereof and a wheel-bearing armature pivot hinge bracketdisposed along the length thereof; at least one seat-bearing armaturehaving first and second ends and defining a seat-bearing armaturelongitudinal axis, the seat-bearing armature having a seating platforminterconnected to the second end thereof and a seat-bearing pivot hingebracket disposed along the length thereof; and wherein the at least twowheel-bearing armature pivot hinge brackets and the seat-bearing pivothinge bracket are configured to cooperatively interconnect to form avehicle pivot hinge such that the armatures are pivotably interconnectedabout a single vehicle pivot point to move between at least twoconfigurations: a first riding configuration wherein the longitudinalaxes of the two wheel-bearing armatures and the seat-bearing armatureshave angular offsets relative to each other, and a second foldedconfiguration wherein the longitudinal axes of the two wheel-bearingarmatures and the seat-bearing armature are roughly parallel.
 2. Thefoldable vehicle of claim 1, further comprising a steering mechanisminterconnected with at least one of said wheel-bearing armatures andconfigured to change to directional orientation of at least one wheelassembly relative to the vehicle.
 3. The foldable vehicle of claim 2,wherein the vehicle comprises a front wheel-bearing armature and a rearwheel-bearing armature, and wherein the steering mechanism is pivotablyinterconnected with the wheel assembly of the front wheel-bearingarmature to move between at least two configurations: a first ridingconfiguration wherein the longitudinal axes of the front wheel-bearingarmature and the steering mechanism have angular offsets relative toeach other, and a second folded configuration wherein the longitudinalaxes of the front wheel-bearing armature and the steering mechanism areroughly parallel.
 4. The foldable vehicle of claim 3, further comprisinga front wheel assembly lock configured to prevent changes to thedirectional orientation of the wheel assembly of the front wheel-bearingarmature when in the folded configuration.
 5. The foldable vehicle ofclaim 3, wherein the front wheel-bearing armature defines an internalvolume having an energy storage device disposed therein.
 6. The foldablevehicle of claim 2, wherein steering mechanism is at least onehandlebar, and wherein the height and angle of the handlebar relative tothe vehicle is adjustable.
 7. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, whereineach of the wheel-bearing pivot hinge brackets and the seat-bearingpivot hinge bracket are disposed proximal to the first end of theirrespective armatures.
 8. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, furthercomprising a pivot locking mechanism configured to disengageably lockthe armatures in one of the at least two configurations.
 9. The foldablevehicle of claim 8, wherein the pivot locking mechanism comprises aplurality of locking grooves and a cooperative locking pin configured toengage said locking grooves, said locking grooves being disposed on atleast one of the at least two wheel-bearing armatures, and saidcooperative locking pin being disposed on at least another of the atleast two wheel-bearing armatures such that when the cooperative lockingpin is engaged within the locking grooves the at least two wheel-bearingarmatures are prevented from pivoting relative to each other.
 10. Thefoldable vehicle of claim 9, further comprising a locking mechanismdisengagement element disposed on the seat-bearing armature andconfigured to disengage the pivot locking mechanism when theseat-bearing armature is pivoted upward relative to the axial alignmentof the seat-bearing armature in one of either the first ridingconfiguration or the second folded configuration.
 11. The foldablevehicle of claim 1, further comprising a seat support element pivotablyengaged at a first end thereof along the length of the seat-bearingarmature and slidingly engaged at a second end thereof along the lengthof one of the at least two wheel-bearing armatures such that a roughlytriangular configuration is formed between the seat-bearing armature,the at least one wheel-bearing armature and the seat support element.12. The foldable vehicle of claim 11, wherein the axis of the seatsupport element is roughly orthogonal with the axis of the seat-bearingarmature.
 13. The foldable vehicle of claim 11, wherein the seat supportelement slidingly engages a channel disposed along a portion of thewheel-bearing armature, the channel delineating a curve-linear pathbetween at least two configurations: a first riding configurationwherein the longitudinal axes of the wheel-bearing armature and theseat-bearing armature and the seat support element have angular offsetsrelative to each other, and a second folded configuration wherein thelongitudinal axes of the wheel-bearing armature and the seat-bearingarmature and the seat support element are roughly parallel.
 14. Thefoldable vehicle of claim 13, wherein the seat support element comprisesa resilient member.
 15. The foldable vehicle of claim 14, wherein theseat support element is configured such that when the seat-bearingarmature is pivoted into the second folded configuration the resilientmember is placed into tension such that a resilient locking force isapplied to the seat-bearing armature to urge said seat-bearing armatureinto position in the second folded configuration.
 16. The foldablevehicle of claim 13, further comprising at least one additionalresilient element disposed in relation to said seat support element toapply a force thereto, thereby urging said seat support element into atleast one of either the first riding configuration or the second foldedconfiguration.
 17. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, wherein the vehiclecomprises two wheel-bearing armatures, a front wheel-bearing elementhaving a front wheel assembly with a single wheel, and a rearwheel-bearing element having a rear wheel assembly with at least onewheel.
 18. The foldable vehicle of claim 17, wherein the rear wheelassembly comprises at least two wheels interconnected via a fixed axle.19. The foldable vehicle of claim 17, wherein the rear wheel assemblycomprises at least two wheels interconnected via an axle pivotable abouta point perpendicular to the axis of the rear wheel-bearing armature.20. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, further comprising at least oneluggage rack disposed on at least one of the wheel-bearing armatures,said luggage rack being pivotable between at least two configurations: afirst riding configuration wherein the longitudinal axes of thewheel-bearing armature and the luggage rack have angular offsetsrelative to each other, and a second folded configuration wherein thelongitudinal axes of the wheel-bearing armature and the luggage rack areroughly parallel.
 21. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, furthercomprising at least one electric motor disposed within at least one ofthe wheel assemblies and an energy storage device interconnectedtherewith.
 22. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, further comprising anelectronics interconnection disposed thereon, the electronicsinterconnection in signal communication with at least one sensorconfigured to deliver information on at least one vehicle parameter anddeliver information from the at least one sensor to the personalelectronic device.
 23. The foldable vehicle of claim 22, wherein the atleast one vehicle parameter is selected from the group consisting ofvehicle speed, energy consumption, energy reserve, mileage, anddirection.